Commercializing Nature: Mangrove Conservation and Female Oyster Collectors in The Gambia

摘要: Abstract:  Taking a political ecology approach, this paper offers critical evaluation of conservation efforts undertaken in Gambia's Tanbi Wetland National Park (TWNP), “wetland international importance” as designated by the Ramsar Convention. Focusing on oyster commercialization component World Wildlife Fund's Gambia–Senegal Sustainable Fisheries Program (GSFP) TWNP mangrove forests, we identify oystering practices that promote and others conflict with sustainable management. The project, which aims to commercialize culture through local women, is entirely production oriented, ignoring ways oysters are prepared for market. As result, degradation very forests GSFP conserve may be accelerated. project selectively engages environmental knowledge fails consider implications expanding value chains their shells. Unless Fund addresses these issues, its objectives potential socioeconomic benefits compromised.